Two newly released books by criminal attorney Willard Bakeman present a comprehensive critique of the United States' approach to justice, violence, and public safety. Drawing on more than five decades of experience across the criminal justice system, Bakeman examines controversial questions surrounding mental illness, legal responsibility, and the death penalty in works that challenge fundamental assumptions about crime and punishment.
The first book, "Law, Liberty, and Mental Health: A Call for a New Legal System," addresses the growing intersection of violent crime, untreated mental illness, and substance abuse. Bakeman argues that modern legal priorities have increasingly placed individual liberty above public safety—even in situations where individuals pose a known danger. Through historical analysis, case studies, and legal examination, the book explores how deinstitutionalization and the decline of mental health care have left many individuals homeless, incarcerated, or untreated.
Bakeman draws comparisons to societal responses during the COVID-19 pandemic, noting that sweeping public health restrictions were accepted to prevent harm, while legal systems remain reluctant to intervene in cases where untreated mental illness creates predictable risks to public safety. This analysis suggests that current legal frameworks may be inadequately addressing public safety concerns related to mental health crises.
His second book, "The Death Penalty Revisited," examines the longstanding debate surrounding capital punishment. Written from the rare perspective of a legal professional who has served both as a prosecutor and a defense attorney, the book explores the strongest arguments on both sides of the issue. Rather than advocating a specific position, Bakeman encourages readers to engage in thoughtful reflection about whether the death penalty truly fulfills the societal goals often claimed for it.
Together, these two books challenge readers to reconsider the moral and legal assumptions that shape modern American justice. The implications extend beyond academic discussion to practical considerations for policymakers, legal professionals, and communities grappling with complex questions about safety, justice, and mental health treatment.
Both titles are available now through major retailers including Amazon. Bakeman's analysis emerges from his unique career spanning roles as Deputy District Attorney, Public Defender, and Criminal Defense Attorney, with extensive experience in homicide litigation. This comprehensive background provides him with a rare perspective on both sides of the courtroom, lending authority to his examination of issues involving violence, punishment, mental illness, and the moral responsibilities embedded within the legal system.
The publication of these books comes at a time when many communities are reevaluating their approaches to public safety and criminal justice reform. Bakeman's work contributes to ongoing national conversations about how legal systems can better balance competing values of liberty, justice, and societal protection. His examination of mental health and legal responsibility particularly resonates as communities nationwide address homelessness, substance abuse, and violence prevention strategies.
Through his writing, Bakeman seeks to encourage deeper public reflection on foundational questions about justice and safety. The books represent not just theoretical discussions but practical examinations informed by decades of courtroom experience and observation of the criminal justice system's evolution. For readers interested in legal reform, mental health policy, or criminal justice ethics, these works provide substantial material for consideration and debate about America's approach to some of its most challenging social issues.
